The significance of the greenhouse effect for the climate lies in its role in regulating the Earth's temperature. Greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, trap heat in the atmosphere and prevent it from escaping back into space. This natural process is essential for maintaining a habitable climate, as it keeps the Earth’s average temperature within a range that supports life. However, human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, have intensified the greenhouse effect, leading to global warming and climate change, posing risks to ecosystems and human societies.